Of course, the fact that "The Big Bang Theory," "How I Met Your Mother," "Fringe," and "Revolution," are being downloaded with such frequency despite the fact that they are available online for free (as long as you watch the commercials) may suggest that it simply doesn't matter. Even when offered a free, ethical means with which to watch television, downloaders will choose the more convenient, illegal option.

Here are the 10 Most Pirates TV Shows of 2012.

1. Game of Thrones: 4.2 million downloads; 4.2 million viewers

2. Dexter: 3.85 million downloads; 2.75 million viewers

3. The Big Bang Theory: 3.2 million downloads; 15.2 million viewers

4. How I Met Your Mother: 2.96 million downloads; 10.1 million viewres